Kevin Johnson

Johnson grew up in Sacramento and later became the city's mayor from 2008 to 2016 — a full-circle journey that saw him transition from the city's most celebrated athlete to its highest elected official.

His first step was so quick that opposing coaches routinely designed defensive schemes specifically to stop his drive — a testament to how much his athleticism could destabilize an entire defensive game plan.

Johnson was part of the 1988 trade from Cleveland to Phoenix that is widely considered one of the most one-sided trades in NBA history — Phoenix essentially gave up very little and received a franchise point guard who would anchor their team for twelve seasons.

KJ's relationship with the Phoenix community extended well beyond basketball — his foundation and community work during and after his playing career established him as one of the franchise's most impactful figures in the city's history.